Maccabi Tel Aviv Nears Signing Slovenian Striker Aster Sokler for €1 Million

Maccabi Tel Aviv is close to finalizing the signing of 27-year-old Slovenian striker Aster Sokler for around €1 million. Sokler is expected to fill the role of the injured Ion Nicolescu and bring immediate impact to the team. Known for his versatility and physicality, Sokler has a proven track record in the Serbian league and has recently played in Scotland with Aberdeen.

Sokler's football journey began in the small Slovenian town of Krško, where he gradually rose through the ranks, making his Slovenian top league debut at 22. Nicknamed "Mr. Flexible" for his ability to play multiple attacking positions, he impressed with his speed and fearlessness. After stints at Celje and Radomlje in Slovenia, he moved to Aberdeen in the Scottish Premiership, where he struggled to secure a starting spot but had notable moments, including scoring in a League Cup match and in the UEFA Conference League qualifiers.

In early 2025, Sokler was loaned to Serbian club Radnički, where he found his form, scoring 15 goals in the season and earning a permanent transfer. His performances caught the attention of Maccabi Tel Aviv, who see him as a player capable of leading their attack with his physical style and movement. Sokler models his game after Wayne Rooney and is known for covering large areas on the pitch, often dropping deep or drifting wide, which fits well with Maccabi's tactical approach under coach Kenny Miller.

Standing 1.81 meters tall and capable of sprinting at nearly 35 km/h, Sokler combines physical attributes with technical skills, including good positioning and key passes. Although not a classic goal poacher, his ability to create chances and link play is expected to enhance Maccabi's offensive dynamics. The club anticipates that Sokler will integrate quickly and contribute significantly as they prepare for European competition qualifiers starting this month.

Sokler's unique personal story includes being named after a Slovenian hit song and initially being mistaken for a girl due to his name. His rise from a small town to an international career and now to a leading Israeli club underscores his adaptability and potential. Maccabi Tel Aviv hopes that a strong season from Sokler will justify the investment and possibly increase his market value in the future.